Son Heung-min Benched as South Korea Faces South Africa, Which Revamps Midfield Due to Suspensions

South Korea has opted to bench talisman Son Heung-min for their upcoming Group A clash. The decision sees Oh Hyeon-Gyu lead the line, having previously replaced Son in South Korea's defeat against Mexico. This strategic move signals a potential shift in their attacking approach for the match.

Meanwhile, South Africa's coach Hugo Broos faces significant challenges in revamping his midfield. Key players Teboho Mokoena and Themba Zwane are suspended, forcing Broos to introduce new faces into the lineup. Attacking midfielder Relebohile Mofokeng and wingers Thapelo Maseko and Oswin Appollis are set to feature in the starting eleven.

The starting lineups for the encounter have been confirmed. South Africa will field Ronwen Williams, Aubrey Modiba, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, Khuliso Mudau, Ime Okon, Thalente Mbatha, Sphephelo Sithole, Oswin Appollis, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Maseko, and Evidence Makgopa. South Korea's lineup includes Kim Seung-gyu, Lee Han-beom, Kim Min-jae, Lee Tae-seok, Seol Young-woo, Lee Gi-hyuk, Hwang In-beom, Paik Seung-ho, Hwang Hee-chan, Lee Kang-in, and Oh Hyeon-gyu.